Ten sandy beaches along the coast of northern Chile (20-23 degreesS) were studied in December 1998, to examine the distribution, abundance, and habitat characteristics of the crab Ocypode gaudichaudii. Beach width. slope, and intertidal fringes were identified, and Dean's parameter, describing beach morphodynamic status, was calculated. Crabs were collected and burrows and physical characteristics of the burrow zones analysed. The burrow zone extended primarily across the dry and retention zones. Physical properties across the burrow areas did not influence burrow characteristics. Significant differences in burrow density were detected both within and among the 10 sandy beaches. These differences were not related to morphodynamic beach types, but could be explained by related aspects, such as the height of the drift line, and the width and slope of dry and retention zones. We linked these results to behavioural and not just to physical causes.